The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Kwara State Command, has apprehended 12 suspected illegal immigrants from Mali in the Akerebiata area of Ilorin following a tip-off from concerned residents.

The suspects were arrested on Sunday, February 22, 2025, at about 10:00 p.m., according to the command.

They were identified as Umar Sangari (25), Bubu Bill (43), Modibo Keita (26), Mahmud Jaalo (22), Bakare Sumonu (20), Saiku Dubia (28), Panda Aboubacar (32), Malle Siaka (24), Seku Barry (34), Lamine Bakou (27), Baye Bolly (24), and Zuman Traore (26).

The suspects were reportedly occupying a two-bedroom apartment rented through a local agent under suspicious circumstances.

In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC 1 Ayoola Michael Shola, and made available to journalists on Wednesday, the corps said items recovered during the operation included nine mobile phones, two international passports, identification cards, a wristwatch, keys, and cash, among others.

The State Commandant, Bala Bodinga, said the command had commenced a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding their presence in the state and to ascertain whether they had any criminal links or unlawful intentions.

“Upon the conclusion of investigations, the suspects will be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary action in accordance with existing immigration laws,” he stated.

Bodinga added that the arrests came amid growing security concerns in the state, stressing that the command would not allow criminal elements to use Kwara as a safe haven.

“We remain fully committed to safeguarding lives, protecting property, and curbing all forms of criminality across the state,” he said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the safety of their communities.

In 2024, the Joint Border Patrol Team Sector 2, South West Zone, Lagos arrested and handed over 156 illegal immigrants to officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service.

It also said 2,633 bags of foreign per boiled rice and 4.019 jerrycans of petrol worth N1.4bn were intercepted within the period under review. (The PUNCH)

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